Al-Shabab suicide bomber kills 32 in Somalia

A suicide bomber linked to the al-Qaeda-affiliated group Al-Shabab launched a deadly assault on Lido Beach in Mogadishu, Somalia, on Saturday, resulting in the tragic deaths of 32 civilians and leaving over 60 others wounded, many critically.

The attack, which began with an explosion at the entrance of the Beach View Hotel, has been labeled one of the most catastrophic incidents in recent months.

Witnesses recounted the chaos that ensued as the bomber detonated his explosives, followed by armed assailants attempting to storm the hotel and indiscriminately firing upon beachgoers.

“Everybody was panicked, and it was hard to know what was happening because shooting started soon after the blast,” said Abdilatif Ali, a witness who described the harrowing scene.

Police spokesman Abdifatah Adan Hassan confirmed the grim toll, stating, “More than 32 civilians died in this attack, and about 63 others were wounded.”

Security forces responded swiftly, killing all the attackers on site and apprehending one who was found in a vehicle loaded with explosives. However, the attack also claimed the life of one soldier and left another injured.

The assault, which occurred during a busy night at the beach, drew immediate condemnation from Somalia’s federal government.

Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire expressed his condolences on social media, emphasizing the tragic timing of the attack during a popular social gathering spot.

Al-Shabab has a notorious history of targeting Lido Beach, a vibrant Friday night destination for many Somalis.

For over 17 years, the group has waged a violent campaign to overthrow Somalia’s central government, frequently carrying out attacks in the capital and beyond. Despite efforts and support from the international community, the government’s ongoing battle against Al-Shabab has faced numerous challenges, including recent setbacks that have allowed the group to claim control over additional territories.

In light of the escalating violence, Somalia has requested a delay in the withdrawal of the African Union peacekeeping mission, ATMIS, originally scheduled to leave by December 31. Strategic adviser Matt Bryden of Sahan Research labeled the attack a significant security failure, highlighting the government’s struggles against Al-Shabab’s persistent threat. He noted, “This incident underscores Al-Shabab’s capability to escalate violence in Mogadishu while the government contemplates negotiations with the group.”

As Somalia grapples with this latest tragedy, the nation mourns the loss of innocent lives and faces the daunting challenge of restoring security amidst an ongoing insurgency.